Rory McIlroy started the 2020 Ryder Cup as one of the most experienced players on the European Team. However, as his expertise did not come to his rescue, safe to say, his opening day did not go as planned. Following the lead picked up by Team USA, captain Padraig Harrington has dropped McIlroy for the Saturday foursomes. The Irishman lost both of his matches on Day 1 and will sit out for the first time in his career.

That being said, McIlroy has always been under the spotlight while at the Ryder Cup. However, the reason behind the same is infamous rumors that many believe are not rumors after all. McIlroy’s attachment to the U.S has often gathered unwanted attention, with reports exploring possible angles around the same, even taking his citizenship into consideration.

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Is Rory McIlroy an American Citizen?

Sparing the drama and suspense, simply put, Rory McIlroy is not an American citizen. Despite the claims of McIlroy wanting to play from the US side, he is still not an American.

In 2019, a report spoke about McIlroy wanting to play the Ryder Cup 2020, but for the US Team. It did seem like a far-fetched idea, but enough to convince fans it was the ultimate goal.

Back in 2009, McIlroy had referred to the iconic Cup as an ‘exhibition’. This had affected then-captain Colin Montgomerie, who wasn’t a fan of McIlroy’s comments, to say the least. “It is not an exhibition and it never will be. It’s a very unique, special event,” the then skipper said.

Controversy king, McIlroy also passed a few remarks about the Open Championship. The 19-time PGA Tour winner said he was not a fan of tournaments that are “predicted so much by the weather”.

Reports also added that he was an almost no-show for the 2012 Ryder Cup. Since then, McIlroy has moved to Florida (2013), missed the Olympics (2016), and married an American (2017). He has also been playing a more American-focused schedule, which could say a lot about his upcoming moves.

As McIlroy continues to live the American dream, fans have begun to question his commitment to Europe.

Golf- 1, Patriotism- 0

McIlroy was at the Olympics this year. However, many believe his enthusiasm could have been better. “I’m not a very patriotic guy,” McIlroy said. “I am doing it because I think it is the right thing to do, and I missed it last time.” 

His candid approach has created doubt within many, especially regarding him staying and playing for Europe. Despite all discussions, only time will tell what McIlroy will choose.

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